The Truth About the Muslim Population in India

For years, there has been a debate around the official figures of the Muslim population in India. Some claim the numbers are much higher than what the government officially reports. This article delves into the various perspectives and explores the discrepancies in the reported figures.

Official Figures vs. Unofficial Estimates

According to the official data, the Muslim population in India stands at around 14-15 percent. However, unofficial estimates put the figure closer to 19-20 percent. The discrepancy arises from the significant increase in the Muslim population, which some believe is undercounted in government reports.

Personal Observations and Trends

Residing in West Bengal, I observe that the Muslim population here is much more prominent. Approximately 30-35 percent of the population consists of Muslim voters. Additionally, Muslims tend to have more children compared to Hindus. For example, educated Hindu men usually get married around 29, while women marry at around 25. In contrast, Muslims often marry significantly younger, typically around 21-22 for men and 17-18 for women.

Demographic Discrepancies

It is argued that the Muslim population has been undercounted by the census authority in every decade. Research suggests that the real Muslim population of India is about 250-300 million, making up 20-22 percent of the country's population. The 2011 census figure of 172 million, representing 14.2 percent of the population, is considered highly inaccurate and misleading.

Population Growth Projections

Based on these trends, the Muslim population in India is projected to grow exponentially. Experts suggest that by 2050, the Muslim population may easily reach 450-500 million, making up 28-30 percent of the country's population.

Data and Research

Several sources support these claims. For instance, a Times of India article reports that the U.S. feels India has 180 million Muslims. Another article in the The Express Tribune highlights the undercounting of Muslims in the census.

Political Controversy and Social Implications

The discrepancy in population numbers has sparked political debate in India. For instance, BJP MLAs have expressed frustration over a statement suggesting the sudden emergence of 25 crore Muslims. The issue has also raised concerns about the demographic changes and potential social implications.

Conclusion

Whether the Muslim population in India is closer to 16 percent or 20 percent remains a matter of debate. However, it is clear that the population has grown significantly and will continue to do so in the coming decades. As more data and research comes to light, it is crucial for policymakers and citizens to accurately understand and address the implications of these demographic changes.